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Packers 2016 seven-round mock draft: Defense is focus for Packers

By Freddie Boston

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a helmet and NFL shield logo before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a helmet and NFL shield logo before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Nick Vannett (81) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks in the first quarter in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Nick Vannett (81) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks in the first quarter in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 4 (99): TE Nick Vannett, Ohio State

The benefit of trading down on day one with Cleveland is the bonus pick at the top of the fourth round. With this selection, the Packers would be able to land tight end Nick Vannett out of Ohio State.

Jared Cook is the short-term answer at tight end, but Vannett can be the future. What stands out with the Ohio State product is his towering size. At 6-foot-6, 257 pounds, he can give Rodgers a big-time target who can open up the middle of the field.

Vannett might be the most balanced tight end in the class. He spent a lot of time blocking at Ohio State and has the potential to become a talented blocker in the NFL.

An underrated part of his game is as a pass-catcher. Vannett put enough evidence on tape to suggest he can become a reliable receiving tight end at the next level. He runs smooth routes, has good hands and can attack the middle of the field. Finding a tight end who Rodgers can turn to on third downs and in the red zone could take the offense to the next level.

Next: Round 4

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